Recognition for Orkney's High Street Heroes

That the Parliament congratulates Laura Bruce and Duncan McLean, from Kirkwall BID, on being named High Street Heroes by Scotland’s Town Partnership (STP) in recognition of their work to help the area's businesses and economy during the COVID-19 pandemic; understands that the awards recognise those who have gone above and beyond to support their local shops and high streets to continue trading safely; recognises that the BID designed and ran campaigns to help promote Orkney’s businesses and encourage people in Orkney to shop local and also lobbied for funding support for local businesses that had been severely financially impacted by the restrictions; thanks and pays tribute to Laura, Bruce and all members of Kirkwall BID who have worked tirelessly to keep businesses afloat and support them during this uncertain period; also congratulates Orkney businesses, Wellpark Garden Centre, Argo’s Bakery, Starlings, Sutherland’s Pharmacy and William Shearer, on being recognised by STP for their exceptional efforts in keeping customers safe while they visit and shop at their premises; believes that these accolades are terrific examples of Orkney’s business community finding creative and ingenious ways to overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic and also demonstrates the wonderful community spirit in Orkney more widely, by pulling together to help each other and the local economy through this period; commends everyone at Kirkwall BID and all the area's businesses for this excellent recognition, and hopes that it gives Orkney’s business community a welcome boost.